2017 SVP Startup Profile: Thero

What’s Thero?
By applying aerospace material science to CPG, Thero focus on creating innovative product that makes a better life. The first Thero Mug helps to cool down scouting hot drinks to perfect temperature in 30 seconds. No more burning, no more waiting and no batteries required!

What is the story behind your startup?Thero began as a capstone project motivated by the founder, Chloris Yang’s need for a mug that would let her quickly enjoy her afternoon coffee while keeping up with her busy on-the-go schedule. Thero hopes to use the portable drinkware market as a beachhead. After establishing a foothold in this market, we plan to expand our product line to include other applications of the heat regulating material that makes our products so special.

What’s been a big milestone/accomplishment you’ve made since Summer Venture Program started?Found one of the largest metal supply chain in China as our potential supplier and finalize our product design.

What’s been a big obstacle/surprise that you faced?The importance of effective teamwork and communication surprised me. Since we have to negotiating with Chinese manufacturer and suppliers, I have to overcome the communication obstacle caused by distance and time. Day and night inversion living style brought some problem to our teamwork. Fortunately, we solved it by quality communication. Also, we are looking for more technical positions in our team.

Any tips for aspiring entrepreneurs that you want to share?Just do it!

Meet the Author

Ziyan Liu is a rising junior at Babson College who is interested in marketing, event planning, and entrepreneurship. Ziyan likes to work with entrepreneurs to learn different things from them, which is part of what she does as a team member of the Butler Launch Pad at the Arthur M. Blank Center for Entrepreneurship. Besides working as an assistant for accelerator programs, Ziyan is currently serving as the VP of Marketing for BAPSA (Babson Asian Pacific Association).